On a chilly evening, there’s nothing quite as comforting as the smell of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings wafting through the house. This dish has a way of bringing back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in, all while being effortlessly simple to prepare. Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmered in a creamy gravy that envelopes fluffy dumplings, making every bite feel like a warm hug. The best part? This homemade meal is perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends, ensuring you can enjoy the comforts of home-cooked goodness without the fuss. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or seeking an easy meal to feed the family, this recipe checks all the boxes. Are you ready to savor the ultimate in slow-cooked deliciousness?
Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Simplicity: With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can create a wholesome meal that brings everyone to the table.
Creamy Comfort: The rich, velvety sauce envelops tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, offering a cozy experience that’s hard to resist.
Family Favorite: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, reminiscent of cherished family recipes that warm your heart.
Time-Saving: Allow your slow cooker to work its magic, giving you more time to relax or tackle other tasks around the house.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add your favorite veggies—like carrots and peas—to customize it for your family’s tastes. If you love easy, satisfying meals, you might also enjoy Cajun Chicken Garlic or Cowboy Butter Chicken.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
This comforting dish comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients.
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken – Use breast or thighs for optimal tenderness.
For the Broth
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Keeps the flavor rich without too much salt.
For the Dumplings
• Dumpling Mix – Store-bought mixes are a time-saver without compromising quality.
For the Sauce
• Heavy Cream – Adds a luxurious creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
For the Vegetables (optional)
• Carrots, Celery, or Peas – Fresh or frozen options boost flavor and nutrition and can easily be added to the slow cooker.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by placing your thawed boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker. Arrange the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking. This is the foundation of your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings, which will create juicy, tender meat after hours of slow cooking.
Step 2: Add Liquid
Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it is fully submerged. Next, add in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. This blend of broth and cream will create a rich, flavorful base for your dish, inviting warmth and comfort into your kitchen.
Step 3: Sprinkle Dumpling Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dumpling mix over the surface of the liquid in the slow cooker without stirring. This allows the dumplings to form a fluffy texture as they cook. Resist the temptation to mix, as this will affect the overall consistency of your slow cooker meal, the beloved Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the temperature to low. Let it cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking—this helps maintain steam and ensures the dumplings turn out pillowy and soft.
Step 5: Shred Chicken
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken from the slow cooker with tongs and place it on a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks until it’s nice and chunky, and then return it back to the slow cooker. This step infuses the chicken with the delicious creamy sauce.
Step 6: Final Stir
Gently stir the entire mixture to combine, ensuring the dumplings are coated in the creamy sauce. Allow it to rest for an additional 10 minutes with the lid on, which will help the dumplings to set perfectly. Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings are now ready to be served, offering a delightful, hearty meal for you and your loved ones.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Imagine sitting down to a family meal filled with warmth and laughter, where every bite complements the creamy goodness of your dish.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp, vibrant green beans provide a perfect contrast to the creamy chicken and dumplings, adding freshness to each plate. Their bright color and slight crunch are appealing, making every meal feel balanced.
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Garlicky Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender, these roasted carrots enhance the comfort factor. Their caramelized edges bring a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich gravy.
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Buttery Cornbread: This soft, slightly sweet cornbread is a lovely addition, perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce. The mix of textures elevates the entire meal, creating a heartwarming experience.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing note. This combination brightens the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs works as a light base. It complements the creamy chicken and allows each forkful to capture both textures and tastes artistically.
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Apple Crisp for Dessert: To sweeten your meal’s finale, serve a warm apple crisp. The warmth of the spices beautifully contrasts the creamy savory meal and evokes a sense of homey nostalgia.
Each of these options can help create a satisfying, complete dining experience that nourishes both body and soul.
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the dish before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Consider freezing without dumplings if you want the best texture upon reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a touch of broth if needed for moisture. Microwaving works too—just ensure it’s heated thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors of the creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
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Avoid Lid-Lifting: Opening the slow cooker lid during cooking can cause gummy dumplings. Keep it closed to retain moisture and heat.
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Thickening Sauce: If the gravy turns out too thin, mix a cornstarch slurry. This will help achieve a rich, creamy texture in your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings.
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Warm Addition: For thicker consistency, add warm broth or milk gradually instead of all at once. This prevents lumps and ensures even mixing.
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Prep Chicken Correctly: Always start with fully thawed chicken to achieve optimal tenderness and avoid overcooking; this leads to the best flavor and texture.
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Flavor Boost: Consider adding fresh herbs or spices to the mix for extra flavor. A dash of thyme or parsley can elevate your dish beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the chicken, broth, and heavy cream in the slow cooker pot up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, the dumpling mix can be prepared ahead of time, ensuring that it’s ready to sprinkle on top when the cooking begins. Just remember to not stir the dumpling mix in until you’re ready to start slow cooking, as it helps maintain that fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply plug in your slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions as usual, enjoying a comforting meal with minimal effort!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this recipe your own with these delightful variations!
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Turkey Twist: Swap out chicken for turkey; perfect for using up holiday leftovers while keeping that homey flavor.
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Herbed Dumplings: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the dumpling mix for a delightful aromatic boost!
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Vegetable Medley: Add chopped carrots, celery, and peas to the slow cooker for an added layer of nutrients and flavors.
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Creamy Swap: For a lighter version, easily substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or almond milk while retaining that creamy goodness.
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Cheesy Infusion: Mix shredded cheese into the dumpling batter for a gooey, cheesy surprise that everyone will love!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy for those who like a little heat.
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One-Pot Wonder: Use a rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time. Just shred and mix it in for a hassle-free meal!
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Different Dumpling Style: Experiment with biscuit dough or even make homemade dumplings using a simple homemade recipe for an authentically cozy touch.
For those who enjoy a variety of flavors, you might also want to explore recipes like Slow Cooker Beef or Cajun Chicken Garlic, which offer delicious twists on classic comfort foods.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
For the best results in your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. The thighs, in particular, have more fat, providing a tender, juicy texture after slow cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool before sealing the container to preserve its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. If you prefer the best texture upon reheating, consider freezing the chicken and gravy separately from the dumplings, as they tend to get a bit soggy when frozen together.
What should I do if the dumplings are gummy?
If you find that your dumplings are gummy, it’s likely that the lid was lifted during cooking. For your next attempt, resist opening the lid! If they’re already cooked and gummy, try letting them rest a bit uncovered after cooking to allow some steam to escape. You can also serve with extra broth or gravy for added moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free dumpling mix or swapping out the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or a plant-based milk. Always check labels to ensure that ingredients meet dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavor of the sauce?
To give your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley to the mix before cooking. You can also include spices like garlic powder or onion powder, or even a splash of white wine for a more robust taste. Just remember to adjust to your personal preference!
Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing your thawed boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker. Arrange the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it is fully submerged. Next, add in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.
- Evenly sprinkle the dumpling mix over the surface of the liquid in the slow cooker without stirring.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the temperature to low. Let it cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken from the slow cooker with tongs and shred it using two forks.
- Gently stir the entire mixture to combine, allowing it to rest for an additional 10 minutes with the lid on before serving.
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